As we grow older and gain wisdom through myraid experiences, a quite trace of pride settles in. Giving us the self-belief that we are better and wiser than others. We unabashedly gloat about our achievements and feel that we have the moral high ground to judge others’ reactions or behaviours, without giving them the benefit of doubt.

Before you think I am speaking about someone else, hold on, all this implies to me. This very day, I got a great lesson of humility when I least expected.

I woke up this morning full of excitement, with a spring in my step, as I had plans to watch Devil Wears Prada with my girl gang – and boy did we enjoy. Post the movie, we had long hearty, juicy conversations that I am sure ladies out there would relate to. I left feeling refreshed and rejuvinated, simply on cloud nine… Until my drive back home.

Some of you may be familiar of my impeccable driving skills, which I did mention in one of my blogs. I was my cautious best, ensuring to remain within the speed limit and keep safe distance from each passing vehicle. When I was less than a kilometer away, I decided to run some errands. I slowed my vehicle, carefully watching the moving traffic from the rear view mirrors, and got ready to park at a safe spot. I cautiously stopped to give way to a young boy, from a very humble background, physically dragging his broken motor bike to a mechanic’s shop nearby. And what do I get for being a considerate citizen – he rammed his bike right into my stationary car’s bumper, giving it an ugly scratch.

I was livid, on the verge of using some not so appropriate words part of my vocabulary that I detest using. I rolled down my window and gave an aggressive stare and probably said – cant you see. Like a growling cat forced to retreat, I grudgingly parked my vehicle and got off the car to complete the impending task. Only to face the boy – who was standing in front of me.

Oh God was I angry and scared at the same time. Sensing a possible attack, I raised my voice and said go away! He meakly stood there absorbing my insult. And politely replied, “Didi scanner de do, mein aapke nuksaan ke paise de deta hoon.” (Sister, please share your digital account details, I’ll transger the cost of repairs). The road rage hadn’t subsided and I was still clinging to my anger, which kept me from truly comprehending his message. Holding his earlobes between his thumb and index finger, he said “Sorry didi.” and left.

I stood there stumped, unable to fathom this young boy’s courage. Firstly to own up to his mistake and secondly, ready to offer his entire day’s earnings to make up for it. He had shown far more maturity than I did. That boy taught me a lessen that I had forgotten – anger and pride can blind us to see the goodness in others.

I, for one, walked away of this experience learning that I need to practice what I preach to my daughter, especially- about how to behave when one is angry, and gosh how did I actually end up behaving. And secondly, I’ll also need to offer a prayer for my car’s safety each time I take it out for a drive.